Abstract
Background
The radioactive microsphere technique has been used extensively for the accurate measurement of tissue blood flow in experimental animals. However, the need for carotid artery cannulation for injection of microspheres may significantly impair blood flow to the head and neck region.
Objective
This study assessed an alternative technique of injecting microspheres directly into the left ventricle to ensure a symmetric distribution of microspheres to the head.
Methods
Twenty-five New Zealand rabbits (seven to nine weeks of age) underwent blood flow measurement to the orbitozygomatic complex (OZC) regions bilaterally. Under general anesthesia, a sternotomy was performed and a cannula was inserted into the left ventricle. Radioactive microspheres were injected after a stabilization period of 15 min. Blood pressure and cardiac output were measured during the procedure and the animals were sacrificed at the end of the experiment. Tissue samples were harvested bilaterally from the OZC, hemimandibles, masseter muscles and overlying skin for measurement of blood flow.
Results
There was no significant difference in blood flow between the right and left side specimens. Animals were hemodynamically stable during the procedure.
Conclusion
Assessment of blood flow to the craniofacial region in experimental animals using radioactive microspheres may be facilitated by sternotomy and direct intracardiac injection.
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